Liam McIntyre says his title role in
"Spartacus: Vengeance" is one that, given the circumstances in which he got it, he'd rather not have. But he's been getting some pretty good advice on how to play the part -- from the man he replaced.

McIntyre took over the role of Spartacus in Starz's series after
Andy Whitfield was diagnosed with cancer and had to leave the show. Fans of "Spartacus" can see McIntyre in the role when "Vengeance" premieres in January.

"It's a role you wish was never there, especially as a fan," McIntyre said Friday (July 29) at the Television Critics Association summer press tour. "I mean, I think what Andy did in Season 1 ... it was exceptional work. It is a tough act to follow, but I've got an obligation to the fans, to the show, and to Andy's Season 1 legacy to deliver on that."

He says Whitfield and he have spoken about the demands of playing the role -- for which McIntyre is more than grateful.

"The guy has got, I know from experience now, the job you dream of getting. It's the job of a lifetime, and then he's met with this tragic circumstance," McIntyre says. "And he's still got the strength of character to contact me and say, 'Good luck. Well done,' and give me some tips and advice on how to get through the grueling schedule. I think that speaks volumes of the man. He's fantastic, and his legacy from Season 1 will continue forever."

The full trailer for "Spartacus: Vengeance" is below. Don't hit play if the sight of blood makes you queasy.